One couple in the Chicago area - Janean Watkins and Lakeesha Harris - was so eager to be the first in line for a civil union license that they camped overnight outside the Daley Center.

"It's historic," said Watkins, who has been in a relationship with Harris for 10 years. "We wanted to be first. We wanted to make a statement. For us, for our kids. It really means something."

What it means is that gay and lesbian couples will now have access to crucial protections that were previously denied them, such as emergency medical decision making, hospital visitation, inheritance and others.

"I signed that law, and I think it's a good law," Quinn said. "I think it makes us a better state. I think it's important that Illinois be a place of tolerance and welcoming to all."

Couples are able to obtain civil union licenses today, but must wait until tomorrow before holding a ceremony.

Tomorrow, Gov. Quinn and Mayor Rahm Emanuel will be in Chicago's Millennium Park as more than 30 couples enter into civil unions. At least another 30 couples will gather on Friday at the Chicago History Museum to celebrate their unions at a ceremony being hosted by The Civil Rights Agenda.

GLAAD encourages the media to report on the significance of what civil unions will mean for the loving and committed gay and lesbian couples in Illinois whose relationships have gone unrecognized by the state until now. At the same time, we congratulate our colleagues at Equality Illinois on this historic moment in the movement for equality, and we thank all those individuals and lawmakers who worked tirelessly to see this day come to fruition. Congratulations, all!

About GLAAD

GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBT acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love.more about GLAAD >>